Treasure Hunting Tips and Tricks

Helpful Hints for Jewelry Thrifting

Finding hidden gems in thrift stores requires a mix of knowledge, patience, and the right tools. Here are some expert tips to help you spot valuable vintage jewelry.

1. Check for Hallmarks & Signatures

Use a jeweler’s loupe (10x-20x magnification) to read tiny inscriptions.

Look for maker’s marks and brand signatures on the back of brooches, clasps, or inside rings.

Look for purity stamps (e.g., 925 for sterling silver, 10K/14K/18K for gold)

2. Use a Magnet to Test for Precious Metal

Real gold, sterling silver, and platinum are NOT magnetic—if a piece sticks to a magnet, it’s likely plated or a base metal.

Exceptions: Some vintage silver pieces may have a steel pin or clasp that sticks.

3. Feel the Weight & Quality

High-quality jewelry (even costume) often has a solid, heavier feel compared to cheap modern pieces.

Prong-set rhinestones (instead of glued-in) indicate better craftsmanship.

4. Check for Vintage Clasps & Fastenings

C-clasps (pre-1900s) and barrel clasps (1930s-50s) suggest older pieces.

Screw-back or clip-on earrings often indicate mid-century costume jewelry (before piercings became common).

5. Examine Stone Settings & Materials

Rhinestones & Crystals: Look for bright, faceted stones set with prongs rather than glue.

Glass vs. Plastic: Plastic is generally found on lower quality items

Bakelite (valuable vintage plastic): Hard to be sure in the shop- at home true test is Simichrome polish cream

6. Look for Unique & Collectible Styles

Figural Jewelry (animals, insects, faces, Christmas trees, etc.) is highly collectible.

Art Deco (1920s-30s): Geometric designs, bold colors.

Mid-Century (1940s-60s): Floral, nature-inspired designs with aurora borealis stones.

Brutalist or Modernist (1970s-80s): Abstract, hammered metal, oversized statement pieces.

7. Research on the Spot

Use apps like Google Lens, eBay, and WorthPoint to check prices and authenticity - but be aware they are not always right and can miss finding your item altogether.

Compare to similar sold items before purchasing if you are planning to re sell.

Ask the store what if refunds are allowed and what the terms are if you want to return items.

8. Shop at the Right Times

• Visit thrift stores on restock days (ask employees when new items come out).

• Estate sales, flea markets, and charity shops can also be gold mines for vintage jewelry. Check your local paper and onsite sources for upcoming events.

9. At Home- Clean & Restore Carefully

Avoid harsh cleaners on vintage jewelry and never on pearls ! (also rhinestones, which can lose their foil backing).

Use mild soap, a soft toothbrush, and a microfiber cloth for cleaning.

Sterling silver: Polish with a silver cloth or use Wright’s silver cream ( my favorite ) (avoid liquid polish unless absolutely necessary).

10. Have Fun

Don't shop hungry!

Pack your gear to be prepared to evaluate potential purchases in store.

Stay in your budget- create a realistic budget and stick to it

If you can’t live without it - don't go home without it! Chances are it won’t be there the next time you visit.